3 Tips on How to Properly Wear and Care For Compression Stockings

If you have varicose veins, you know not only how painful they can be at times but also how painfully obvious they can look when you show some skin. To start out, we encourage our patients to take a non-invasive approach to getting rid of their varicose veins by using things like compression stockings and losing excess weight. So, how do you wear compression stockings and what are some tips to make sure they work? Read on to learn more.

Get the Right Size

One of the most important things that you need to remember when you are getting compression stockings is that they need to be the right size. If they are too tight, they are going to cut off your circulation. If they are too big, they aren’t going to do anything for you. Additionally, your stockings need to be the right length. If they cover too little of your leg, they aren’t going to give you nearly the amount of benefits as if they do. To get the right size, Dr. Heeringa at Northern Michigan Vein Specialists can measure you beforehand so that you have the exact measurements you need.

Wear Only During the Day

One of the hardest things about compression stockings may be getting them off and then putting them on again— because they do compress your legs. However, it’s important that you only wear them during the day and that you take them off every night before bed. If you sleep with them on, they can restrict the blood flow throughout your legs— which can cause serious health issues.

Hand Wash

We encourage our patients to get at least two pairs of compression stockings— that way when you are washing one pair, you still have one to wear. When washing your compression stockings, make sure to hand wash them on cold to prevent excessive wear and shrinking.

Compression stockings are a fast, easy, and non-invasive way for you to get rid of your varicose veins. If you would like to learn more about how you can take care of your varicose veins, contact Dr. Heeringa at Northern Michigan Vein Specialists today.